“Governments exist to deliver for their people and Mike Baird has been a powerhouse example of that. As NSW Premier, he has demonstrated that good governments that make responsible decisions can deliver real benefits for the community,” Business Council chief executive Jennifer Westacott said.

“Anybody travelling around western and central Sydney can bear witness to his legacy of bold policy decisions like asset recycling and the much-needed new infrastructure it enabled.

“Mike Baird and Barry O’Farrell delivered NSW from a parlous political and fiscal position to one focused on delivering jobs and economic strength. The next premier must continue to build the infrastructure that is desperately needed to make it easier for people to live and work in NSW.

“They must keep NSW open for business and maintain a tight check on the state’s budget so that it can continue to invest in vital social services like health and education without raising taxes or incurring more debt.

“The next Premier should assume Mike Baird’s leadership role in the federation on issues like tax reform and unshackling the economy from overregulation.

“We wish Mike Baird and his family well,” Ms Westacott said.